Thousands line up at McCormick Place to get tickets to President Obama's farewell speech

Thousands lined up at the McCormick Place early Saturday for tickets to President Barack Obama's farewell speech. (WLS)

WLS

Saturday, January 07, 2017

CHICAGO (WLS) --

Thousands of people got in line Saturday morning to get tickets to President Barack Obama's farewell speech in Chicago on Tuesday.

Ticket distribution began at 8 a.m. at McCormick Place. People were not permitted to line up prior to 6 a.m. The tickets were free and only one ticket per person was given out.

Police said anyone not already in line before 7 a.m. would not be getting a ticket.

Many of those who waited in line said they are looking forward to what the president has to say.

"I am just so excited to be in the room. I love Obama. I think he has been a fantastic president and I think the energy in the room on Tuesday night is going to be amazing and I can't wait to be there for it," said Hope Bertram.

The president's speech will take place Tuesday night at McCormick Place. If you don't get a ticket, you can watch the farewell address on ABC7 at 8 p.m.